NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenyan modeling and beauty fraternity is grieving the loss of Lilian Musau, a former Miss Tourism Kenya contestant, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, after a brief but serious illness.
Her death follows nearly a month of hospitalisation at Nairobi West Hospital, during which friends, family, and fans held out hope for her recovery.
Gospel singer Daddy Owen, a close friend and former college mate, confirmed her passing in a social media tribute, describing her as “a dear friend who went to be with the Lord.” Media personality Chris Kirwa also paid tribute, highlighting her bravery and resilience during her final days.
Lilian rose to prominence through her participation in the Miss Tourism Kenya pageant, representing Eastern Province in 2003. She stood out for her elegance, cultural pride, and dedication to promoting Kenya’s tourist destinations.
Beyond her pageant career, she was admired in fashion and beauty circles for her calm nature, professionalism, and commitment to community work—qualities that made her a role model to many young people aspiring to enter the modeling industry.
Her sudden illness shocked those who knew her as a lively and energetic woman. Her family had earlier shared that Lilian had been hospitalised due to liver complications, with medical expenses amounting to KSh 655,000. Despite the severity of her condition, those close to her say she remained hopeful and strong throughout her hospitalisation.
Lilian also had a distinguished career as a flight attendant, with over 10 years of experience in the aviation industry. She worked as a Senior Inflight Attendant at Emirates Airline from 2007 to 2018, serving in Economy, Business, and First Class, and previously held roles at Pakistan International Airlines and East African Safari Air Express Ltd.
She held a Cabin Crew Duties Diploma from the Institute of Commercial Management, England, and an IATA/UFTA Foundation Diploma in Tourism and Travel Services Management from Travel Operations, Montreal, Canada.
News of her passing spread quickly online, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and friends, who described her as kind, determined, inspiring, and a proud ambassador of Kenyan culture. Her death is seen as a profound loss to the modeling, tourism, and aviation communities.
Lilian Musau is remembered as a woman who carried herself with grace, promoted Kenya on national and international platforms, and left a lasting legacy in the creative and professional industries. Funeral arrangements will be announced by her family.